German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron met in Berlin to address growing divisions between their countries on key issues such as defense cooperation, EU-US trade policy, and NATO security.
Despite warmer personal relations, the leaders struggled to overcome disagreements on tariffs, joint military projects—particularly a fighter jet initiative—and how to respond to potential US trade measures. Both leaders emphasized the need for European unity and stability, especially as the EU considers a $100 billion tariff retaliation against the US. They set an August deadline to resolve their fighter jet dispute, signaling urgency but also ongoing friction.
The outcome of these talks will shape the future of the Franco-German partnership and the EU's global stance.
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